The case involving Dr Moosajee Bhamjee showed the serious difficulties those working in the health services had to work under, said Dr Mary Henry (Ind). Greater efforts should be made to bring before the House the mental treatment legislation which had been promised for the past 15 years.
Dr Henry said serious account must be taken of the first-hand experience of Mr Camillus Glynn (FF) in this area.
Mr Glynn, a psychiatric nurse for 30 years, called for a debate early in the next session on the psychiatric services. Consultants and nursing staff found themselves in a serious situation, he contended. Acute wards were being abused regularly by people presenting for admission.
"Really, it's a bed-and-breakfast service they are looking for. That is not what the psychiatric services are all about. Consultants and nurses are facing an impossible situation. There is mayhem going on in psychiatric hospitals over this particular practice".